23 March 1999
MEDIA RELEASE - David Lloyd to resign after the world Cup
ECB
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced today that
the England coach, David Lloyd, has decided to leave the ECB
after the World Cup.
His departure has been concluded in entirely amicable
circumstances following a meeting this morning with ECB Chairman
Lord MacLaurin and International Teams Director Simon Pack.
David, at 52, is looking to secure his future in the longer term
and wanted an assurance that his contract would be renewed after
the World Cup.
David fully understands the ECB's position, that it would be
difficult to give such an assurance at this time. Both agreed
that the matter needed to be concluded promptly to end
speculation so the England team can concentrate fully on their
World Cup campaign.
ECB Chairman Lord MacLaurin said: "We owe David a huge debt for
the job he has done as England coach since taking over the role
in 1996. During his time in the job, David has introduced many
innovations that mean we are now world leaders in several aspects
of our approach to the game at international level. It would be
a fitting send-off for him if we could lift the World Cup for the
first time this summer."
ECB Chief Executive Tim Lamb said: "David has done a magnificent
job for England, including delivering our first five Test series
victory for 12 years. For the moment nothing is more important
than a successful World Cup campaign, and I know that David will
give his all in achieving this."
David Lloyd commented: "I've had a tremendous time with the
England side and I'm looking forward to completing my tenure with
a successful and enjoyable World Cup campaign. It was important
for me to have a clear picture of what my future holds. Now that
the matter is settled this means the team can focus exclusively
on the World Cup."
David's innovative contribution to the role of coach means he
leaves the national side in a healthy state.
During his time in the role he has helped refine the team
management structure, which now includes a fitness consultant and
a media relations officer, as well as a number of specialist
coaches. David has also been instrumental in the development of a
scheme to promote leg-spin in this country, and has fostered the
use of video analysis of both England and opposition players.
Since David took over as coach in the spring of 1996, England
have enjoyed Test series wins against India (1-0), New Zealand
(2-0) and South Africa (2-1), and secured the Sharjah Champions
Trophy against India, Pakistan and the West Indies in December
1997.
Chairman of Selectors David Graveney echoed the praise for David
when he said: "It's always a sad occasion when a working
relationship comes to an end, but David has done a brilliant job,
and I'm sure that view would be endorsed by all the team
management and players.
"Personally, I've enjoyed my involvement with "Bumble" both as a
friend and in a working relationship, especially managing sides
away from home.
"The way David has performed in the job, with the pride and
passion he has shown, is a worthwhile example for everyone
involved in Team England. I am sure we are all united in our
efforts to make sure we win the World Cup to give him the perfect
send-off."
England captain Alec Stewart said: "It's disappointing news but
it's been a real pleasure to work with "Bumble", a coach who is
thorough, loyal to his players and completely professional. He
has brought a real sense of passion to the job of England coach
and it would be great to reward him with the World Cup as a final
vote of thanks from the players for all he has done for us."
Former England captain Michael Atherton said: "David has done a
top-class job with England. He has brought real enthusiasm and
dedication to the job and I think he has had a large part to play
in helping to establish the infrastructure that is now in place.
I can say without fear of contradiction that David is enormously
admired and respected by all the players."
The ECB will now start its search for a new coach to fill the
role vacated by David.
David Lloyd will hold a media conference at Old Trafford,
Manchester on Thursday 25 March at 11 am.